Women's Health Month
The health needs of women are unique in many ways. At Crossing Rivers Health, we will meet you where you are and help you through life’s journey. This uniqueness becomes apparent during puberty when girls experience rapid growth, skin changes, breast development, menstruation, and emotional irritability. It is important for girls to know these are all normal and for caregivers to provide understanding and support. All women have gone through these changes, including their friends, though it can happen at different ages for each individual. Some ideas to consider include educating girls about hygiene, advocating for their health, healthy lifestyle choices, positive body language, and how to manage their feelings.
HPV vaccine is important for both boys and girls. HPV is a common virus that is easily spread through contact with infected skin and mucous membranes. This vaccine is highly effective in the prevention of a wide range of cancers including cervical, oral, and penile. It can also prevent genital warts. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV infections and most people don’t even know they have them. This vaccine series is most effective for teens between the ages of 11-13.
Cervical cancer screening, or pap test, is important to begin at age 21. This screening can identify cervical cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective. HPV testing will be added to the pap test beginning at age 30. The frequency of testing is determined by your health care provider and is dependent on the results of previous testing and other risk factors. It is important to see your health care provider yearly, even as a young adult.
Reproductive health is one of a wide range of health topics specific to women. Crossing Rivers Health is committed to assisting women and families during this exciting time in their lives. We have caring providers who will assist you through pregnancy, childbirth, caring for your infant, and raising strong healthy families.
Screening for breast cancer with a mammogram generally starts for women at age 40. This age could differ if you have other risk factors such as a personal history of breast disease or a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Women should become familiar with doing a self-breast exam monthly to notice any changes in the breast. Follow up with your primary care provider if changes are noted. A risk assessment is now completed with all mammograms at Crossing Rivers Health to determine your lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. If your risk is elevated, enhanced screening may be indicated. Mammograms, self-breast exams, clinical breast exams, and other tests such as ultrasound and breast MRI are all tools we use in screening for breast disease.
We often joke about hot flashes, but it is a reality for many women. Perimenopause can be thought of as “reverse puberty” and generally begins sometime in your 40’s. During this time, your ovaries gradually stop working causing symptoms such as mood changes, headaches, trouble sleeping, heavy sweating, irregular menstrual bleeding, and others. Perimenopause is a natural process that does not require treatment; however, some women choose treatments like hormone therapy to help with symptom reduction. There are other methods of reducing symptoms including eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding triggers such as caffeine or alcohol. See your healthcare provider for individualized care. Perimenopause may last 2-10 years and is complete when you have not had a period for 12 months at which time you have reached menopause.
Bone density decreases in women as you age, and hormone levels drop, putting you at risk for fractures. Women’s bones are generally smaller and less dense than men’s. Testing for bone density is done through a CT to monitor for osteoporosis. Osteoporosis prevention includes stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, implementing weight-bearing exercise, increasing calcium and vitamin D in your diet, and supplementation if needed.
Eating a healthy diet is important for women. Keep it simple by including various foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low fat dairy. Getting your nutrients from whole foods rather than supplements is generally preferred. Limiting the consumption of fats, processed foods, and alcohol can reduce your risk of several chronic diseases and cancers. Maintaining a healthy weight is more than just how you look. It can reduce disease, improve your mood, and allow you to move better throughout your lifetime. Managing your weight with healthy diet choices and exercise is key. Set a goal for yourself to move your body for 30 minutes 5 times per week. Women should consider a combination of strength training (weights or resistance bands), weight-bearing (walking, running, etc), flexibility, and balance/stability exercises. Regular exercise has a wide range of health benefits.
Mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Getting outdoors and moving your body is a great way to lift your mood. Sometimes you need a little time away from your responsibilities to do things you enjoy to recharge. It is okay to ask for help and it’s okay to ask if someone else needs help. Check in with your people and make sure they are okay. We all need a little help now and then. Be aware of times when someone may be struggling by watching for the warning signs. We don’t have to do this alone. There are many resources available locally.
We recognize the important role women have in families and our community. We support you in caring for yourself so you can feel your best and live your best life!